A first: AlexRiverFete is May 9-11 in downtown Alexandria

The city of Alexandria's first AlexRiverFete will take place May 9, 10 and 11 in downtown Alexandria. The event will feature food from local restaurants and caterers, artwork and performances by local artists and musicians, a barbecue cookoff and the third annual Louisiana Dragon Boat Races.

The first AlexRiverFete will take place Thursday through Saturday (May 9-11) in downtown Alexandria.

The event, sponsored by the city of Alexandria, will feature Dinner on the Bricks on Thursday, ArtWalk on Friday and Saturday and the Louisiana Dragon Boat Races and a barbecue cookoff Saturday. Live music is scheduled throughout the festival.

Admission is free. Prices for food, beverages, artwork and more vary by vendor.

--Online: www.facebookcom/alexriverfete.

Schedule

--Thursday, May 9:

6 to 8 p.m.: Dinner on the Bricks on Third Street featuring more than a dozen local restaurants and caterers. Free admission; food prices vary.